How can you defeat mites on indoor plants? - briefly
Treat infestations with a thorough spray of insecticidal soap or neem oil, covering leaf undersides and repeating every 5–7 days until the mites are gone. Remove heavily damaged foliage, increase humidity, and isolate the plant to stop re‑colonization.
How can you defeat mites on indoor plants? - in detail
Mite infestations on houseplants develop quickly when humidity is low, air circulation is poor, or the plant is stressed. Early detection relies on inspecting the undersides of leaves with a magnifying lens; look for tiny moving specks, webbing, or stippled discoloration. Once confirmed, a multi‑step approach maximizes control.
- Isolation – Move the affected plant away from healthy specimens to prevent spread. Keep it in a separate room or under a clear plastic cover for 24 hours to trap escaping mites.
- Physical removal – Rinse foliage with a strong spray of lukewarm water, directing the stream at the leaf undersides. For stubborn colonies, wipe each leaf with a soft cloth dampened in soapy water (a few drops of mild dish soap per liter).
- Cultural adjustments – Raise ambient humidity to 50–60 % using a pebble tray or humidifier; mites thrive in dry conditions. Trim heavily infested leaves and discard them in sealed bags. Avoid over‑fertilizing, especially with high nitrogen, which encourages rapid growth and attracts pests.
- Chemical options – Apply a horticultural oil (e.g., neem or jojoba) at the label‑recommended concentration, covering both upper and lower leaf surfaces. For severe cases, a miticide containing abamectin or spinosad may be used, but rotate products to prevent resistance.
- Biological control – Introduce predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis or Neoseiulus californicus. Release rates range from 10–20 predators per square foot; maintain suitable humidity and avoid broad‑spectrum insecticides that could kill the beneficial agents.
- Monitoring – After treatment, inspect the plant weekly for at least six weeks. Use sticky traps placed near the foliage to gauge mite activity and predator presence.
Combining sanitation, environmental management, and targeted treatments eliminates infestations while preserving plant health. Consistent observation and prompt action are essential to keep indoor greenery mite‑free.